Every now and then our bodies need a reset to help them function a bit better, and the same goes for our hair. Upon learning how to make a hair detox properly, we can rid it of buildup and impurities and allow it to return to its former glory. A hair detox, or detox shampoo, can reveal vibrant, healthy, and fresh locks where dull, dry, and dirty hair was before.

A hair detox can help get rid of heavy buildup that might be responsible for weighing your hair down throughout the day. Unlike body detoxes which may take a few weeks, by adding just a few hair products to your hair care routine you can start detoxing your hair from day one. By doing your hair a favor with a detox, you’ll be well on your way to improving everything from your hair color to your hair’s health.

Healthwise, a clean scalp is more important than clean hair. Clean hair looks, feels and smells great, but a properly cared-for scalp is what keeps all clean hair gorgeous. Fortunately, the tools for a good hair detox are literally at your fingertips – mastering massage techniques and some natural products for cleaning the scalp will never fail, no matter what else you do as a treatment.

Learn how to do your hair detox with a few of our detox tips:

Hair detox

Use a Hairbrush

A good-quality boar bristle brush is the best way to spread nourishing sebum through your hair. Gently stroking the scalp with it feels fantastic, of course, but also helps dislodge those old skin cells. We suggest you brush before you shower or go to bed. But remember, go easy on your scalp.

Use a Scalp Brush

If you don’t use a brush, a silicone-bristle scalp massage brush is a great next step. Those with curly hair in particular might find a silicone shower brush a beneficial tool. Use it to get your products – from cleansers to masques – well-distributed into hair and roots. A shower brush also offers a nice, safe massage and saves your scalp from getting scratched by your fingernails.

Use Apple Cider Vinegar

 Apple cider vinegar for the scalp can kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi that lead to dandruff and its more severe form, seborrhoeic dermatitis. It can also help remove scalp buildup, and its acidity will close your cuticles and boost your shine. To avoid irritation, be sure to dilute the apple cider vinegar before applying.

Whether you want to learn how to get rid of dandruff or you’re looking for natural ways of cleaning the scalp, apple cider vinegar is a great product for all your hair detox needs.  Mix ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar with a cup of water, fill a spray bottle and mist your hair and scalp. Massage into your scalp with a shower brush or fingertips and leave on for three to five minutes. Rinse with warm water and cleanse as usual.

Brown Sugar exfoliant

When it comes to scalp care, sugar is great as your key exfoliant. It gently buffs away sebum and product buildup while also helping to hydrate a dry scalp. Add it to your conditioner or mix with coconut or olive oil.  Here is a hair detox mix which is super easy to make: combine two tablespoons each of brown sugar, and two tablespoons of conditioner or oil. After washing your hair massage the scrub into your scalp in a circular motion with your fingertips or shower brush. Leave it for a few minutes, and rinse thoroughly.

Use Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera Gel – a celebrated skin soother – contains enzymes that break down dead skin cells and promote healing. It also has conditioning and anti-itch properties for people who suffer from an itchy scalp. No recipe necessary here: Apply the product directly to your scalp and let it do its magic.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil is included in many clarifying shampoo recipes to help balance natural oils in your scalp. The antioxidant powers of iron and calcium support collagen levels and promote shiny hair growth.

Willow Bark Extract

White willow bark is excellent for those prone to oily hair or dandruff, which can go hand-in-hand. It contains the highest concentrated form of exfoliating salicylic acid found in nature, and its astringent tannins counteract oiliness. Using willow bark extract is a great natural remedy that really helps with oily hair and scalp exfoliation.

Ginger

Ginger has thermogenic properties, meaning it creates heat through metabolic stimulation, which helps heal the scalp. Here is an invigorating scalp tonic that you can use weekly: mix fresh ginger, lemon juice, and water in a spray bottle. Mist your scalp with the mixture and massage thoroughly.